This is a great idea that actually works! The brush does distribute product (though sometimes not evenly) and does retract as promised. There is also a locking mechanism that I love. Perfect for travel!

I used bare minerals when it first came out and recently. The Matt and original both are good powders but clog pores. I am lucky to have ideal skin (I'm not break out prone, no redness, etc.) and after using it for a year I noticed some black heads on my nose. Between peels, facials, and dermatologist visits the product is not very essential to the skin. Long term usage doesn't provide any advantages.